Ho Chi Minh City is accelerating its development of advanced digital infrastructure, striving to master strategic technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor chips, blockchain, and 5G/6G mobile networks.

This initiative is part of the city's action plan to implement Resolution 57-NQ/TW issued by the Politburo on December 22, 2024, focusing on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation at the national level.

By 2030, HCMC aims to allocate 2% of its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) to research and development (R&D) and dedicate at least 3% of its annual budget to science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, increasing this proportion over time.

The city seeks to become one of Vietnam's leading digital technology hubs, ranking among the top 100 most dynamic startup ecosystems globally and the top three provinces/cities in innovation and digital transformation.

HCMC is working to attract major global tech corporations, establishing research centers and production facilities in the city.

The goal is to develop 5,000 innovative startups and at least five internationally recognized centers of excellence (CoE) in key technology fields.

Additionally, the city aims to nurture 5–10 major tech enterprises while boosting scientific research output, targeting an annual 10% increase in international publications and a 16–18% rise in patent applications.

To enhance digital governance, HCMC plans to be among the top five provinces in national competitiveness and digital government development.

The city aims to achieve over 80% adoption of online public services, 80% cashless transactions, and have at least 40% of businesses engaged in innovation.

Security-wise, it seeks to lead in cybersecurity, data protection, and digital society development while fostering a strong digital culture and economy.

In terms of economic impact, the city targets Total Factor Productivity (TFP) contributions of over 55% to economic growth, with the digital economy contributing around 40% of GRDP.

It also aims to develop at least one new IT-focused industrial park and attract at least three world-leading tech firms to establish regional headquarters or R&D centers in HCMC.

A critical part of this strategy is building world-class digital infrastructure to support next-generation technologies, including AI, IoT, semiconductor design and manufacturing, blockchain, cloud computing, big data, satellite communications, and 5G/6G networks.

HCMC plans to maintain its leadership in computing infrastructure, telecommunications, and data centers, achieving city-wide 5G coverage and advancing its status as a smart city.

To support data-driven governance, HCMC will develop integrated digital platforms, ensuring seamless data sharing between government agencies and access to high-value open data for businesses and the public.

The city also aims to digitize administration, streamline public services, and foster an open digital economy.

Looking ahead to 2045, HCMC aspires to become a top research and high-tech application hub in Southeast Asia, with a sustainable innovation ecosystem driving economic prosperity.

The city aims to be among the top 50 global innovation ecosystems, with at least five internationally accredited R&D centers and a digital economy comprising at least 50% of GRDP.

To achieve these ambitious goals, HCMC is implementing major reforms, including:

Shifting mindsets to prioritize science, technology, and digital transformation.

Eliminating bureaucratic barriers to foster innovation.

Investing in high-quality talent and developing specialized training programs.

Promoting digital transformation in government and business sectors.

Strengthening international collaboration in technology and innovation.

To oversee this transformation, HCMC will establish a Steering Committee for implementing Resolution 57, led by Nguyen Van Nen, Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee.

Le My